If you’re looking for things to do in Billings, Montana, you’re in the right place. Here’s a rundown of my favorite activities and attractions in this wonderful city.
I was born and raised in Billings and returned after university. The city has grown a lot in recent years, offering more opportunities for both residents and visitors. Now that I’m back and working remotely, I’m excited to share all the fun things to see and do here in my hometown.
Whether you love nature, history, or just want some fun family activities, you’ll find something appealing in Billings. It’s one of the best destinations in Montana, which itself is one of the best places to visit in the US.
Here are the 15 best things to do in Billings.
First up is the Billings Western Tour, perfect if you’re interested in the area’s history and culture. The tour includes important historical sites like the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, Pictograph Cave State Park, and Chief Plenty Coups State Park. It’s a six-hour tour, with admission to each park included.
For animal and outdoor lovers, horseback riding is a must. Several local ranches offer horseback lessons and trail rides suitable for beginners. Head to Livingston, MT, for a guided horseback trek through Blue Flower Trail and enjoy stunning mountain views.
Yellowstone National Park is just under two hours from Billings and is home to an amazing variety of wildlife and geothermal features. Whether you’re hiking, camping, fishing, or sightseeing, start your day early and have your own car for convenience. Consider using a self-guided audio tour for extra guidance.
A unique nearby activity is spending time with llamas in Livingston, about an hour and a half from Billings. You can lead, hug, brush, and feed these friendly animals, making it a fun stop to coordinate with a Yellowstone visit.
For a fun group activity, consider a scavenger hunt around Billings. These hunts last about two hours and take you to popular landmarks and hidden gems, encouraging teamwork and fresh perspectives on the city.
The Beartooth Highway, located just over an hour south of Billings, is one of the most scenic drives in the country. This 68-mile road offers beautiful alpine scenery, including glaciers, lakes, and mountain peaks. On your way back, stop in Red Lodge for a meal or explore the town.
If you enjoy hiking, the Beartooth Mountains are a top attraction with trails of varying difficulties. Stop at the ranger station for recommendations and enjoy stunning views along the way.
Exploring the Rimrocks, towering sandstone cliffs on the north end of town, is another unique activity. Start at Swords Park and take the Rimrocks Trail for scenic views or bring a bike for added fun.
For a romantic outing, visit Yellowstone Cellars Winery for a tasting. They offer a variety of red and white wines, friendly staff, and live music on weekends. The winery is located in the middle of town and is great for a date night.
If you’re visiting in winter, head to the Beartooth Mountains for skiing at Red Lodge Mountain. They offer trails for all skill levels, as well as sledding hills and opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing at the Nordic Center.
The Yellowstone River is ideal for fishing. You can fish from the riverbanks or head out on a boat. Mountain lakes in the Beartooth range offer additional fishing spots. If you need gear, you can rent from the Base Camp.
Moss Mansion is a historic home built in 1903, now a museum with original furniture and fixtures. The grounds are beautiful, and they offer seasonal events, making it a great spot for history enthusiasts.
Billings also has several great breweries. My favorite is the Last Chance Pub and Cider Mill, with a rotating selection of beers and ciders. Most breweries are downtown, making it easy to visit a few on foot.
The Audubon Center, dedicated to nature conservation, is perfect for scenic walks or hikes. They have trails through the woods and along the river, and often host events for families and kids.
For families with young children, the Wise Wonders Museum offers interactive STEM exhibits and play areas. It’s particularly great in the winter when outdoor play isn’t an option.
Billings offers a mix of outdoor recreation, history, and culture, catering to all interests. Whether you’re using it as a base to explore other areas or staying local, there’s always something to enjoy.
